James Franklin will enter his 11th season as Penn State Football head football coach. In his ten years at Penn State, he is 88-39 and 4-5 in bowl games. The downfall for Franklin is 3-17 against the top ten teams and 4-16 against Michigan and Ohio State.

Is this a playoff or bust season for Franklin at Penn State?

There is a compelling case to be made for both sides of the argument as the College Football Playoff expands to 12 teams for the first time this season.

The Case For and Against James Franklin, Penn State Football Needing to Make the College Football Playoff in 2024

Yes, It’s Now or Never

The College Football Playoff will expand to 12 teams, the Nittany Lions are in a favorable position.

This expansion could potentially open up a spot for Penn State in the Playoff. It’s worth noting that the team would have qualified for the last eight seasons if the college football playoffs were 12 teams.

The Nittany Lions boast a solid foundation with six returning starters on offense and defense.

Quarterback Drew Allar, with the support of a more dynamic offense, is expected to shine this season.

Meanwhile, pass-rusher Abdul Carter, who returns, should make the defense as good as last year.

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No, This Isn’t a Make-or-Break Season

With a new offense and defensive coordinator, Penn State could take some time to adjust to the new system.

The Nittany Lions hired Andy Kotelnicki as the offensive coordinator and Tom Allen as the defensive coordinator.

Penn State Football is still suspect at receiver; they did add Julian Fleming but lost KeAndre Lambert-Smith to the transfer portal. The receivers need to prove they can create separation.

Also, they have yet to prove they can beat Michigan or Ohio State. They have lost seven straight against them. Fortunately for Penn State, they’ll miss the Wolverines in 2024 and 2025, which creates opportunity.

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My take

It is playoff or bust year for Franklin.

He will have 12 returning starters this season and should have one of the nation’s best defenses again despite the new coordinator.

With a new OC, the offense should be more explosive and physical, with their rushing attack on Nick Singleton and
Kaytron Allen‘s backs.

But, it will all fall on what Allar and the passing attack can do.

With that being said, there is no reason that Penn State should not make the Playoff.

MORE: James Franklin Sheds Insight on 2024 Penn State White Out

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